More than 18 years after the Duke lacrosse allegations, Crystal Mangum admits that she made it all up.
"I testified falsely against [the lacrosse players] by saying that they raped me when they didn't…I made up a story that wasn't true…I hope that they can forgive me." pic.twitter.com/3yMjbQTQXH— KC Johnson (@kcjohnson9) December 12, 2024
Eighteen years after the Duke Lacrosse scandal shattered lives, the truth emerges. Crystal Mangum, whose accusations led to the wrongful indictment of three Duke players, has confessed: “I was not raped. I made up the story.” These words, years overdue, bring closure to one of the most infamous cases of false accusation in modern history.
In a candid interview, Mangum admitted to lying under oath, expressing remorse for the chaos her claims caused. The accused players, David Evans, Collin Finnerty, and Reade Seligmann, faced life-altering consequences, from expulsion to irreparable damage to their reputations. This confession reopens conversations about the dangers of false allegations and the critical need for due process.
The fallout from the case was enormous. Durham County District Attorney Mike Nifong, who led the prosecution, was disbarred for withholding evidence and engaging in unethical conduct. His actions fueled a media frenzy that demonized the players before the facts were fully examined. The case exposed deep flaws in both the legal system and media coverage, showing how quickly hysteria can overshadow justice.
Mangum’s admission highlights the lingering scars of the scandal. While the players have moved on, the stain of those false accusations lingers in public memory. This confession serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of lies and the enduring importance of truth and fairness in our justice system.
Sources:
https://thecinemaholic.com/duke-lacrosse-scandal-where-are-they-now/